2008 Ford Focus vs. 1978 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Honda Civic would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1978 Honda Civic. (53 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1978 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Focus weights approximately 429 kg more than 1978 Honda Civic. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford Focus (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Honda Civic. (79 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1978 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Focus | Civic |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 79 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1107 kg | 678 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2210 mm |
